The WPA Welcome Reception is the perfect introduction to the WPA Annual Meeting, marking the moment when the event truly comes to life
Held on Saturday evening, the reception is designed as an informal gathering that allows members to ease into the meeting at their own pace. With generous appetizers and refreshments available, it provides a comfortable setting to begin conversations that often continue throughout the conference.
There is no formal program and no pressure to meet everyone. Instead, the evening is about reconnecting with friendly or familiar faces and starting a few meaningful conversations that help set the tone for the days ahead.
A good approach is to keep expectations simple. Aim to engage in a handful of conversations rather than trying to meet everyone in the room. If you’ve reviewed the attendee list in advance and there’s someone you’d like to connect with, don’t hesitate to ask. WPA members are known for being welcoming, and someone will almost always point you in the right direction.
Be sure to wear your badge. Veteran members often make a point of looking for new-member badges and introducing themselves, helping newcomers feel comfortable and encouraging them to get the most out of their first Annual Meeting. For experienced attendees, it’s also a chance to meet peers from other regions and exchange perspectives on shared business challenges.
The Exhibitor Showcase adds another layer of value to the evening. Exhibitors are easily accessible throughout the room and are eager to share what’s new in pallet machinery, software, milling equipment, and other tools relevant to pallet operations. In many cases, what starts as a visit to an exhibitor table turns into a useful catch-up with a long-standing supplier or a conversation with another operator facing similar issues.
More than just a reception, Saturday night is a transition point. It’s when the meeting shifts from travel and arrivals into the shared Annual Meeting experience. Whether this is your first WPA meeting or one of many, the Welcome Reception offers a relaxed, collegial start—an opportunity to connect early, exchange ideas, and make the most of your time together.
Welcome Reception Offers a Relaxed Start to the WPA Annual Meeting
Making the most of your meeting experience from start to finish, and all points inbetween.
2026 WPA ANNUAL MEETING